Is this yet another instance of the "Blue or Black" dress controversy?
For years, there has been an ongoing discussion about whether electric bikes are becoming excessively potent and similar to motorcycles. Over time, manufacturers have incrementally increased their power output and support capabilities, making the distinctions less clear-cut. However, despite these changes, electric bikes still maintain significant differences from traditional motorcycles.
Yes, a Yamaha or GasGas The e-bike may offer plenty of electrical assistance at your fingertips, yet ultimately it remains visually and functionally akin to a regular bike. Nevertheless, this appears to have spurred Segway into seeing it as a gauntlet thrown down.
What lies before you is Segway's The new Xyber, as claimed by the brand, is classified as an e-bike. However, when placed alongside various compact models with fat tires from the electric motorcycle category, it might appear somewhat out of place. The Office's Pam in the image says, “It’s the same picture.” Everyone, this particular instance blends the distinctions between them as we’ve never witnessed before.
What precisely is this thing called the Xyber e-bike? My dear internet friends, let’s avoid getting too creative with analogies about how it came to be. Essentially, according to Segway, the Xyber falls into their category of “mid-range, light electric vehicles” (LEV). This particular model features a robust 6,000-watt direct-drive motor designed to propel the vehicle up to a maximum speed of 35 mph. While perhaps not breaking any land-speed records, it certainly offers zippy performance for an e-bike.
There are also pedals, for some reason. And I say for some reason, as the visage of the Xyber is strictly motorcycle-esque.
If you avoid looking at the pedals, there’s a headlight that shouts "BMW," a frame reminiscent of a dirt bike, a rear shock system as sports-oriented as they get, and a set of forks that seem lifted right off a Yamaha model. The tires, typically associated with regular bikes, appear as though they were taken directly from a Volcon electric off-road motorcycle. In a society where people struggled to agree on whether a dress was black or blue—a debate that went viral—what stops individuals from debating about this vehicle?
That's exactly right, nothing is the reason we've gathered here today.
Despite the cost being similar to a motorcycle at around $3,000, electric bikes typically span prices from roughly this amount up to $10,000; however, none of them could be mistaken for contemporary motorcycles. In terms of ride quality, I imagine it would perform decently considering its 4.5-inch suspension travel both upfront and at the back, along with thick tires and a comfortable seat.
However, what’s preventing Segway from simply installing a more powerful motor and being done with it? Seriously, Segway, go ahead and do it.
Black or Blue
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